English Dub Review: A Condition Called Love “Our First Valentine’s”

Overview

Hotaru is finally sure of how she feels… so why is it that she can’t seem to say it out loud? Will Valentine’s Day give her the opportunity she needs, or is there more at play? An unexpected development at work may just make or break things…


Our Take

In the past, Hotaru has always struggled to express her feelings, her timid nature making her seem withdrawn. This dynamic is intriguingly explored in her interactions with former friend/classmate Sohei, whom she knows from her past, feeling more at ease around him.

And it’s here we meet another new character in the form of Yao, who once was the “crush” of their childhood, brings additional tension. Hotaru’s discomfort around Yao hints at deeper issues, and Saki’s jealousy further complicates matters. The situation seems to spiral into unhealthy territory, as Saki’s intense behavior verges on obsessive. However, his awareness of his previous behavior and his attempts to learn from those mistakes show a glimmer of hope at least…

Overall, this was a passable episode. Looking beyond some of its complexities, there are moments of genuine connection, such as what happens near the end and during the credits. While also highlighting Saki’s insecurities and fear of losing Hotaru, which manifest in negative ways. Despite this, the couple manages to communicate and grow closer, with Hotaru which also shows that while both of the romantic leads have different levels of dysfunctional trauma, they’re both willing to meet each other halfway which is something most couples realistically struggle to do.